Practically Happy - podcast cover

Practically Happy

Inspiration and ideas for applying the science of wellbeing to your everyday life. Host and Miranda Anderson casually and conversationally shares examples and lessons from her own life as well as some of the latest research from the world of positive psychology. In addition, she lets you in on humorous and engaging stories about living with her husband, three kids, two dogs, two cats, and five chickens in Richmond, Virginia.
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Episodes

#290: Sticky Habits for Women with Monica Packer

This week I Pass the Mic to Monica Packer, host of About Progress podcast and creator of the Sticky Habits Intensive for women. Listen in as Monica shares why habits must be built differently if you're a woman, and some tips for getting started. Episode Sponsor: Green Chef!! Try GreenChef for 50% off plus 20% off your next month with code PRACTICALLY50 Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get o...

Jun 20, 202439 minSeason 6Ep. 290

#289: What Perfectionism Sounds Like

Do you identify as a perfectionist? Do you know what perfectionism sounds like? In this episode, I share some research about some distinctions between perfectionists and strivers. Tune in to learn more! SPONSOR: Visit factormeals.com/practically50 to take 50% off your first month and 20% of the following month with code Practically50! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching...

Jun 13, 202441 minSeason 6Ep. 289

#288: Retreat to Advance

What even is a "retreat" and why do they matter? In this episode I share some great research about retreats, and share my story in beginning to plan and host them. Also: Applications for the Renewal Retreat are open now! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 06, 202437 minSeason 6Ep. 288

#287: Expect a Mess

How do you feel when your house is messy? Are you an all-day tidier? Or do you feel like you can't spend time doing hobbies until the dishes are all in the dishwasher? This episode is for you: the neat freaks! When you teach your brain to loosen up, you'll feel a lot better! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more...

May 30, 202438 minSeason 6Ep. 287

#286: Fun with POM POMs

As summertime approaches, I am always looking for simple ways to add fun and whimsy to our experiences. This episode shares 6 ways to invite magic into everyday experiences and wake our brains up to the fun of even normal activities, done in new ways. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick ...

May 23, 202453 minSeason 6Ep. 286

#285: Word Swap Patience and Presence

I love a good word swap! The added perspective and benefit of shaking it up a little bit in simple ways is so interesting. Today I invite you to consider how instead of more Patience, you might need to practice PRESENCE. Sponsor: Try Green Chef today and get 50% off plus 20% off the next 2 months! Use code PRACTICALLY50 Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practical...

May 16, 202441 minSeason 6Ep. 285

#284: Mother's Day and Mind Reading

Mother's Day can be a complicated holiday for many women. Whether or not you identify as a mom, have a relationship with your own mom, or want a specific type of recognition each year, there can be a lot to sort through. I this episode I share some of the (complicated) history of Mother's Day as well as some research about clear communication and mind-reading. SPONSOR: Try Factor Meals for 50% off with code practically50! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with ...

May 09, 202445 minSeason 6Ep. 284

#283: Wholeness in Motherhood

Women are individuals always before they are mothers. In this encore episode from season one of the podcast, I share four ways to consider retaining and renewing your wholeness as a human while also fulfilling your role and relationship as a mother. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up...

May 02, 202445 min

#282: U-Shaped Curve of Midlife

When I learned about the phenomenon of the U-Shaped Curve of Life Satisfaction, I was both surprised and comforted. As I'm settling into midlife, with its unique challenges and opportunities, I've appreciated reflecting on this unique season and how I'm not alone. Tune in to learn more about what studies show us about midlife contentment and challenge. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreem...

Apr 25, 202441 minSeason 6Ep. 282

#281: Five Factors for Flourishing

Have you ever wondered what some levers you could pull in your life to experience more fulfillment and deeper satisfaction? This episode introduces you to the framework of PERMA, which provides some elements to consider as you build wellbeing with intention. SPONSOR: Try GreenChef for 50% off plus 20% off the following two months with code PRACTICALLY50 Download the free worksheet at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @l...

Apr 18, 202440 minSeason 6Ep. 281

#280: Poetry in Practice

Happy National Poetry Month! I have shared my love of poetry over the past couple years on the show with my segment, Pause for a Poem. Today I go a bit deeper and share some specific ways that I engage with poetry for wellbeing, reflection, and connection. I also share some favorite poems and collections, linked below: Instructions for Traveling West by Joy Sullivan What Kind of Woman by Kate Baer Home Body by Rupi Kaur Mother's Milk by Rachel Hunt Steenblik Projections by Sarah Lockwood A Thous...

Apr 11, 202433 minSeason 6Ep. 280

#279: Flow with The Seasons with April Davis

Over 98% of those listening to Practically Happy are female, and this show is for you! Learning about how my menstrual/hormonal/energy cycles mirror the seasons of the year changed my life. Here is a conversation with feminine health expert April Davis of @hausofvagina to share more! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coach...

Apr 04, 202449 minSeason 6Ep. 279

#278: Discovering Your Taste with Stylist Sydney Bass

Is getting dressed a drag, a joy, or somewhere in between? This conversation with Stylist Sydney Bass may give a new perspective to help you choose your clothes with the same ease you order your favorite meal at a restaurant! Episode Sponsor: Factor Meals delivers chef-prepared meals to your doorstep! Get 50% off with the code PRACTICALLY50 at factormeals.com Join StyleLAB with Sydney Bass at chicstripes.com Follow Sydney on Instagram Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to...

Mar 28, 202448 minSeason 6Ep. 278

#277: One Simple Way to Communicate Better

I love learning simple tips that can be applied for an instant up level in my life and relationships. When I learned about Active Constructive Responding, it sounded like the easy adjustment I could use to increase encouragement, connection, and support into my marriage, motherhood, and friendships. Listen to learn more! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practica...

Mar 21, 202435 minSeason 6Ep. 277

#276: Bare Essentials: Surprising Benefits of Getting Naked

How comfy are you in the buff? When I polled my Instagram audience, the majority of respondents said they "Didn't like being naked, even alone!" In this episode, I share why spending a little more time intentionally nude could build your relationship with yourself, and increase your confidence. Tune in for the research! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practical...

Mar 14, 202449 minSeason 6Ep. 276

#275: Not Doing Anything

Have you ever just not FELT like DOING ANYTHING? Whether from fatigue, burnout, or overwhelm, sometimes we just need a break! In this encore episode, I share 5 things to consider when you feel like doing nothing. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Join me in Turkey July 18-25, 2024 Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visi...

Mar 07, 202435 minSeason 6Ep. 275

#274: What happens in Vagus...might change your life!

You've all heard the phrase "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas..." In this episode, I introduce you to your VAGUS nerve. The understanding of which might change your life. Your Vagus nerve is the brake pedal for your physiological and emotional systems. It helps you slow down, relax, and restore calm and wellbeing. Tune in to learn how! SPONSOR: Try Factor's delicious heat-and-eat meals and take 50% off with code practically50 Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Mirand...

Feb 29, 202445 minSeason 7Ep. 273

#273: Expansive Spirituality

I have always loved exploring spirituality, and until recently also identified as a religious person. This episode defines and differentiates spirituality from religion and shares some progress I've had on my own spiritual journey. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/a...

Feb 22, 20241 hr 2 minSeason 6Ep. 273

#272: It Is What It Is

Have you ever found yourself tangled in the weeds of thoughts, stories, and emotions about circumstances beyond your control? In this episode, I introduce an important first step to many thought-experiment processes: acceptance of what is. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaph...

Feb 15, 202436 minSeason 6Ep. 272

#271: Get Into Motion!

In Atomic Habits, James Clear discusses the important distinction between motion and action. Listen in to learn how to take practical steps towards the life you want! Come to Turkey with me July 18-25! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 08, 202435 minSeason 6Ep. 271

#270: Everyday Resilience

We often think of resilience as strength in the face of big, traumatic events. But we also use resilience in the smaller, everyday stressors of life. In this episode I share some factors that build everyday resilience and our ability to weather any storm. SPONSOR: GREENCHEF Feed your family with simple, healthy meals for 60% off + 20% off the following two months with code 60practically Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show ...

Feb 01, 202451 minSeason 6Ep. 270

#269: Kids and Tech-- The Wild West

For all 14 years that I have been a parent, screen-time and how to manage it has been a topic of conversation (and often stress!) In this episode I try to share some candid stories and recent research into the world of kids and screens. Listen in for my tips! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad c...

Jan 25, 202455 minSeason 6Ep. 269

#268: Try a Grief and Gratitude Journal

I have long talked about the benefits of journaling about your gratitude...but where do we share our grief? In this show I share some recent realizations with how to better open up to the whole spectrum of human emotions in order to be more practically happy. SPONSOR: Get $1.49 meals and $1 steaks with EveryPlate! Visit everyplate.com/podcast and use code 49HAPPY Come to Turkey with me in 2024!! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and ...

Jan 18, 202442 minSeason 6Ep. 268

#267: Anticipation Effect: Thriving Ahead

As the year turns over, we can build some positive anticipation by planning and savoring exciting future events and experiences. Listen in for some of the science behind anticipation and how to use it well. Join Miranda for a Women's Trip to TURKEY in July, 2024 Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your a...

Jan 11, 202437 minSeason 6Ep. 267

#266: Four S's of the New Year

This encore episode was the most popular episode of 2023-- so I'm excited to share it again at the beginning of the New Year. Listen in to learn about how to reflect on what to Stop, Steady, Systematize, and Start in 2024. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 04, 202442 minSeason 6Ep. 266

#265: The Story of 2023

At the end of the year, it can be helpful to try on the story of your year from a few different perspectives. This way you can see it more fully, and make a more whole sense of meaning from what you went through. This episode shares how! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon...

Dec 28, 202332 minSeason 6Ep. 265

#264: Make Lasting Memories

This is the time of year that we really want to–I think a lot of us really want to create lasting memories. We want to have these experiences that are magical and beautiful, and that we’ll remember. This episode will share some evidence-based tips for making memories that last! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn m...

Dec 21, 202350 minSeason 6Ep. 264

#263: Boost Your Positivity Ratio

Research shows that a ratio of around 3:1 positive emotions to negative emotions yields higher well-being and life satisfaction. But how do we generate those emotions, and how much is too much? Tune in to think about your emotions in a whole new way! Sponsor: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.49 per meal PLUS $1 steaks for life by going to EveryPlate.com/podcast and entering code 49happy. (Subscription must be active to qualify and redeem $1 steak.) Find full show notes at livefreecreative...

Dec 14, 202347 minSeason 6Ep. 263

#262: Values-Based Holiday Season

Having a value or two identified as anchors for your holiday season can help simplify decision making, add ease and confidence to what can otherwise be a hectic time of year. Tune in for a refresher on values and some examples of using them as guidelines for holiday planning. List of Values Sign up for a free exploratory coaching call right here Follow @livefreemiranda and @practically.happy.podcast on Instagram Buy my book More Than Enough Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/ad...

Dec 07, 202343 minSeason 6Ep. 262

#261: Creating A Decision-Making System

Do you love or loathe decision-making? In this episode, I share some strategies behind second-order decision making that can bring ease and efficiency to your decision making processes. Tune in for practical examples and ideas. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda email miranda@livefreecreative.co Buy my book More Than Enough Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 30, 202334 minSeason 6Ep. 261
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